PM calls for unity

PRIME Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama has called on the people to join the Muslim community in celebrating the Prophet Mohammed's teachings of love, understanding, social justice and equality among all people.

Speaking in Nadi yesterday, Commodore Bainimarama said it was also a time to consider the special role that faith plays in each of our lives and in the lives of our neighbours.

"Fiji is one of only a handful of countries in the world that does this, and we do so proudly," he said.

"It underlines the unique nature of Fiji in our own region — a multi-faith nation with a new constitution that guarantees religious freedom and establishes a secular state, in which all religions are equal.

"We also do it as a personal gesture of respect for our fellow citizens of other faiths, knowing that whatever beliefs we hold, we are one people, one nation, and have a common destiny."

Commodore Bainimarama said Prophet Mohammed's birthday celebration was for all people to share the spirit of unity and love.

"As with our other public holidays that commemorate Christmas, Easter or Diwali, it's also a time to consider the special role that faith plays in each of our lives and in the lives of our neighbours.

"Today, we reaffirm the responsibility we have to each other as Fijians.

"We reflect on the values and principles that we all share and we re-dedicate ourselves to our common goal of creating a prosperous and caring nation for all."

Commodore Bainimarama said an important milestone would be reached later in the year "when we hold our general election".

"As I've said before, the possibilities for our nation are limitless if that election is a success and we can stay focused and unified.

"So today, we again ask for God's blessings on the noble quest of all Fijians - working together — to finally fulfil our promise as a nation, to fulfil our destiny."